Hi Everyone,

My name is Shane Donovan; I am the founder of The Community Giving Tree and Director of Donovan Real Estate.

I started The Community Giving Tree in 2015 to support families in our local community who would otherwise go without at Christmas time. Since then, we’ve raised over $80,000 and helped more than 1,000 families experience the joy of Christmas.

Christmas should be a time of joy, excitement, and celebration for every family, not just those who are financially secure. Sadly, I’ve seen first-hand that this time of year can bring stress and heartache to parents who can’t provide the gifts or food they wish they could. Some children wake on Christmas morning to no presents at all, and some families don’t even have a tree.

As a father of three young boys, I can’t imagine facing those difficult questions from a child: Was I naughty? Did Santa forget me? No child should feel left out on Christmas Day.

This year, The Community Giving Tree is again partnering with local charities, including the OzChild Wishing Tree Appeal, to provide presents, food, and other essentials for families in need. Our goal for 2025 is to raise over $10,000 in gifts and donations, which will help us support more than 100 local families.

The need is greater than ever, with the rising cost of living placing more families under pressure. But with the incredible generosity of our community, we believe we can achieve this goal together.

Here’s how you can help:

Donate a Gift: For boys and girls aged newborn - 14 years. Please leave your unwrapped gift under our office tree.

Donate Financially: We’ll do the shopping for you, ensuring every donation goes directly towards gifts and Christmas hampers.

Spread the Word: Encourage friends, family, or your workplace to get involved.

Donation Details

In Person:

Donovan Real Estate Partners

F5 & F6, 317 Ballarto Road, Carrum Downs

Bank Transfer:

Account Name: The Community Giving Tree

BSB: 083-420

Account Number: 744 756 775

✨ Please note: we cannot accept second-hand toys or perishable food items.

✨ Donations close Monday, December 22, 2025.

Together, we can light up Christmas for children and families who need it most.

From the bottom of my heart, and from my family to yours, thank you, and Merry Christmas.

Warm regards,

Shane Donovan

Founder – The Community Giving Tree

Director – Donovan Real Estate